Is Your Information Safe with Your Fitness Watch?

Health-tracking apps and programs have become increasingly popular in Provo, Utah and across the country. With companies like Fitbit, Garmin and even Apple providing detailed health information based on fitness technology, you can track a number of variables just by wearing a watch. And although you are ultimately the one managing your progress, just how private is the information you’re uploading? 

Fitbit’s privacy policy, for example, promises to never sell personal information, but are you protected by law if any of it were to be shared? A lawyer often deals with drug injury lawsuits and other medical malpractice cases, but what happens when someone gets ahold of your medical records from an unofficial application?

What Does HIPPA Cover?

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPPA, is a privacy law that was passed by Congress in 1996. As explained by Consumer Reports, the law includes “any individually identifiable information about your health status, health care that you have received, or payment for health care.” 

This means that if a healthcare provider or one of its subsidiaries were to share your personal information regarding a drug injury or other records, you would have the right to hire a lawyer to claim damages. Whether in Provo or another city, medical centers must adhere to this strict code of conduct, or serious consequences could arise.

What You Should Know About Apps

Based on the specifications of HIPPA, health-tracking apps are not required by law to maintain the security of your information. A lawyer would advise you to become familiar with the privacy policies of the apps you’re using. 

If you suffer a drug injury or other health issue and share this information in a public sphere, there is always a chance that someone could obtain access to your records and commit health care identity theft. So whether you live in Provo or elsewhere, be aware of your rights when using health-tracking apps.

Emily Culp  is a legal writer for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Robert J Debry. Follow on Twitter.